Photo by K. Kelly for VISIT PHILADELPHIA®

There’s nothing like the holiday season—especially in the Greater Philadelphia Area. From European Christmas markets and twinkling lights to ice skating and musicals, this season is one to remember. Below, find some of our favorite holiday happenings in the city and beyond. 

Winter at Dilworth Park
November 15-March 9, 2025
Dilworth Park

Skate to your heart’s content at the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink, open seven days a week. Surrounded by the Greenfield Lawn’s reindeer topiaries, you’ll feel like you’re skating in Santa’s North Pole. Find bites and sips at the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin to round out your experience. 

ELF The Broadway Musical
November 19-December 29
Walnut Street Theatre

Embark on a journey to New York City with Buddy the Elf as he searches for his birth father and discovers his true identity. But what does he do when he realizes his father is on the naughty list? Help Buddy save Christmas during this year’s production.

Peddler’s Village Holiday
November 19-January 14, 2025
Routes 202 & 263
Lahaska, Bucks County, PA

Breakfast with Santa, Gingerbread house competitions, light displays and more make Peddler’s Village an annual family favorite. After walking around to view the lights between holiday shopping, stop at one of the many area restaurants for a warming bite to eat. 

A Longwood Christmas
November 22-January 12, 2025
Longwood Gardens

This year’s tradition returns bigger and better than ever with Longwood Reimagined: the grounds’ new gardens, glasshouses, landscapes, and festive dining. In addition to strolling Longwood’s gardens and Conservatory, the venue also hosts holiday-themed events and workshops like tablescape and floral designs, and smartphone photography lessons. 

Christmas Village
November 23-December 24
LOVE Park & City Hall

Travel to Europe without your passport during this year’s open-air German market. Shop handmade gifts from both local and international vendors, including Paper on Pine, Erika’s Mexican Art Crafts, Russ Brown Photography, and Nordic Dreams. Plus—don’t miss any of the bites or sips from the market’s eateries. Think bratwurst, Belgian fries, Mazza wine, Schnitzel and more. 

Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular
November 25-December 31
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks

Over one million twinkling lights guide guests throughout the magical grounds of Tinseltown. Grab your skates and head over to the 8000-square-foot ice rink before snapping photos with Santa; warm-up with treats and drinks at the Tinsel Lodge; and shop vendor village. Just don’t miss the two-lane ice slide on your way out! 

Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 28
Center City & The Benjamin Franklin Parkway
8:30am-Noon

Kick off the holiday season Thanksgiving Day at Philly’s annual festive parade, now going on its 105th year. The family-friendly tradition features the annual procession of floats, balloons and musical performances…plus, a very special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, himself. Can’t make it in person? Stream it on Hulu, Disney+ and ABC NewsLive. 

Holiday Garden Railway: Nighttime Express
November 30-December 22
Morris Arboretum

Visit the gardens for a brisk walk with a pitstop at the holiday railway, where you’ll find incredibly magical detail as you watch the train move across miniature gardens and scenes. Post-walk, head to nearby Chestnut Hill and explore the historic neighborhood—complete with plenty of boutiques to shop and restaurants to dine. 

George Balenchine’s The Nutcracker at the Philadelphia Ballet
December 6-29
The Academy of Music

The Mouse King, Clara and Sugar Plum Fairy return on stage for another magical performance of George Balenchine’s The Nutcracker. 

Cirque du Soleil Twas the Night Before 
December 19-29
The MET

Based on the classic poem A Visit from Saint Nicolas by Clement Clarke Moore, Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show tells the story of a young girl who rediscovers the magic of the holidays through thrilling acrobatics and a soundtrack featuring holiday classics reinvented by the Cirque du Soleil team. 

Miracle on South 13th Street Holiday Light Display
December 21-January 1, 2025
1600 Block of S. 13th Street, Philadelphia

Walk or drive through the South Philly light display. Expect fun holiday displays that will only continue your holiday cheer. 







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